Malta, Gozo courts 'discussing installation' of x-ray machine

Five months after the stabbing incident that took place at the court in Gozo, an x-ray machine has not yet been installed.

While a metal detector was installed three days after two men - one of whom a lawyer - were stabbed in front of a magistrate by a man wielding a penknife, a baggage scanner has not been installed.

The issue was raised in parliament by Labour MP and Gozitan lawyer Justyne Caruana. According to Caruana, the lack of an x-ray machine was resulting in further delays and discomfort. She said that court officials were carrying out the inspection of bags by hand.

"This is not only causing delays but is also causing discomfort to the persons," Caruana said, as she explained that the contents of the bags would be taken out in front of those waiting to enter the courts.

Replying to Caruana, Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono said that: "the installation of the machine was being discussed between the court of Malta and Gozo."

She however gave no details of timeframe.